Though dogs have evolved alongside us for tens of thousands of years, today they are largely thought of as pack-following wolves or furry humans. The truth is, dogs are neither, says John Bradshaw, director of the Anthrozoology Institute at the University of Bristol, who presents recent scientific research to show how humans can live in harmony with—not just dominion over—their four-legged friends. Whether explaining why positive reinforcement is more effective (and less damaging) than punishment for controlling dogs' behavior, or demonstrating the importance of weighing a dog's unique personality against stereotypes about its breed, Bradshaw offers extraordinary insight into the question of how we really ought to treat our dogs.

"Every dog lover, dog owner or prospective dog buyer should read this book. It will change how you feel about dogs and, likely enough, how you treat them, too.... This book sparkles with explanations of canine behavior."—Sunday Times (London)